UK: Nunthorpe Return For Kingsgate Native

Monday, 6 August 2012: Dual Group One-winning sprinter Kingsgate Native is set to oppose Australian mare Ortensia when he make his first appearance for trainer Robert Cowell in the Nunthorpe Stakes at York.

Kingsgate Native Photo by Racing and Sports

The seven-year-old won the Knavesmire sprint as a juvenile and the G1 Golden Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot the following year before heading to Cheveley Park Stud to take up stallion duties.

However, after proving infertile and being gelded, Kingsgate Native  returned to training with Sir Michael Stoute, for whom he won two races.

He failed to rediscover his best form at the end of last season, but Cheveley Park are keen to see if a change to Cowell can reignite the sprinter.

"He's been with me a couple of months and he's a horse who obviously doesn't need any introduction," said Cowell.

"The owners wanted to keep him in Newmarket and give him a change of scenery and find out what he is still capable of.

"He's older now, but I've been happy with him at home so far. The engine is still there and we'll just have to wait and find out how big it is.

"The plan is to go straight to the Nunthorpe with him. We had thought about giving him a run somewhere first, but we'll go straight to York and see what happens."

The Nunthorpe on August 24 will be the next start for Ortensia following her win at Goodwood on August 3.